30 January 2026
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Sponsored content: communities across central and southern Scotland which are hosting crucial transmission infrastructure projects will be able to apply
Applications are now open for SP Energy Networks’ new Community Benefit funding programme.
The first tranche of funding will offer grants from a pot of £7.8 million alongside practical support to community groups based near eligible transmission infrastructure.
The funding aims to deliver lasting social, economic, and environmental benefits, ensuring local people share in the opportunities created by SP Energy Networks’ work to deliver a transmission network fit for the future.
Communities across central and southern Scotland which are hosting crucial transmission infrastructure projects will be able to apply.
A doubling of electricity demand is predicted by 2050, with the majority of the electricity coming from green, renewable electricity sources. To ensure this demand can be met and to transport green, renewable electricity across the country to where it is needed, SP Energy Networks is investing in its transmission network, some of which is over 70 years old.
Localgiving is the delivery partner of this Community Benefit Funding, committed to helping local community organisations, charities, and social enterprises operating in qualifying areas turn their ideas into action.
From creating opportunities for skills development and employability support to improving cohesion and enhancing green spaces, the funds aim to bring community-led projects to life through grassroots, local and strategic grants.
SP Energy Networks and Localgiving will also roll out a programme of capacity-building support, including in-person upskilling events, online guidance and tailored workshops to help communities develop impactful projects.
Guy Jefferson, transmission managing director at SP Energy Networks, said on the launch of the fund: “Our first tranche of community funding for 2026 is now live and we are encouraging eligible communities hosting and directly impacted by our transmission infrastructure to apply now through this new programme. We believe our communities should share directly in the benefits of our projects, and we’re excited to be able to help them bring the ideas and initiatives that matter most to communities, to life.
“Strengthening the grid goes beyond infrastructure investment - it’s about connecting people, and creating meaningful, long-term benefits for the communities we serve. With the fund now open for applications, we’re empowering communities to take an active role in building a cleaner, greener future.”
Prior to the launch the Fund, SP Energy Networks and Localgiving undertook extensive research, engagement and collaboration with local communities to understand their interests and priorities, in-turn ensuring this community benefit funding initiative is aligned with the wants and needs of our communities.
Andrei Yusfin, CEO of Localgiving, added:“We are excited to be partnering with SP Energy Networks for this impactful new Community Benefit funding programme. Over the past few months it's been fantastic to engage directly with groups across Scotland, learning about their communities, latest developments and biggest challenges. We are delighted to be able to be a part of this positive and innovative programme and alongside SP Energy Networks see the impact that this funding can deliver.”
Fund applicants are required to deliver on at least one area of local improvement through their project. These areas include strengthening financial resilience, providing employability support, developing skills, promoting active lifestyles, improving community spaces and access to nature, enhancing green spaces, and advancing educational, social, digital, and transport inclusion.
Funding will be available in these localities: Pinmore and Pinwherry, Girvan, Kirkconnel and Kelloholm, Barrhill, Lesmahagow, Coalburn, Tweedsmuir, Crawford and Elvanfoot, New Luce and Royal Burgh of Sanquhar and District.
For more information, please visit: www.localgiving.org/sp-energy-networks-community-benefit-funding
SP Energy Networks launches major new Community Benefit Funding programme - TFN
The above information is from a Third Force News (TFN) Newsletter Fri 31/01/2026